Overview
The Glenamoy River (Irish: Abhainn Ghleann na Muaidhe) rises in the upland townlands of Glencalry and Barroosky in north County Mayo and flows westward for several kilometres before joining the Muingnabo River at Gortacragher to form Sruwaddacon Bay. The river cuts through a landscape of peatland, farms and protected bog complexes such as the Slieve Fyagh Bog and Glenamoy Bog Complex. Its low‑lying course (average elevation about 8 m) makes it highly susceptible to fluvial flooding – in heavy rain the river can swell into a roaring torrent that has historically swept away livestock and even bridge arches.
History
The Glenamoy River has a modest but dramatic recorded history. In August 1933, prolonged rain caused the Muingnabo and Glenamoy rivers to burst their banks. Debris and hay were carried downstream, and the force of the water washed away three arches of the old bridge at Gortacragher. The event is still cited in local flood‑risk assessments and underscores the river’s dynamic nature.
What to See & Do
Angling
The river is renowned among anglers for its healthy runs of Atlantic salmon, sea trout and grilse. The official fishing season runs from 1 May to 30 September, with a later “late‑river” window that can extend into early October for sea trout. All fishing on the Glenamoy is fly‑only and state‑owned licences are required. The Glenamoy Community Angling Association (GCAA) manages the fishery and issues day permits and State Angling licences from the Anglers Rest Bar in Glenamoy village.
Key angling features include:
- Extensive fishing pools from New Bridge downstream to the confluence with the Muingnabo River (about 8 km). These pools have been excavated and cleared as part of a catch‑catchment improvement programme by Inland Fisheries Ireland.
- A wheelchair‑friendly pool near New Bridge, making the river one of the few Irish fisheries with dedicated accessible angling facilities.
- Popular fly patterns such as Thunder and Lightning and various shrimp imitations (sizes 8‑12) for grilse, and Teal Blue, Silver and Black Pennell (sizes 10‑12) for sea trout.
| Activity | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon & Sea Trout fishing | 1 May – 30 Sep (runs to early Oct) | Fly‑only; state licence required |
| Day permits | Available year‑round | Purchase at Anglers Rest Bar |
Landscape & Wildlife
Beyond the angling opportunities, the river corridor offers a tranquil glimpse of Ireland’s western bogland. The surrounding peat‑filled valleys support a range of birdlife and plant species typical of Atlantic‑influenced bogs. Walkers can explore the network of footbridges and stiles that have been installed along the fishery, providing safe crossing points and scenic viewpoints over the river’s meandering course.
Practical Information
The Glenamoy River is free to access, but anglers must obtain the appropriate permits. Permits and State Angling licences are sold at the Anglers Rest Bar, Glenamoy (contact: Kevin Healy, +353 97 87961). The GCAA’s website – glenamoyangling.com – provides up‑to‑date information on pool conditions, recent flood alerts and any temporary access restrictions.
Access & Facilities
- The fishery is state‑owned and leased to the Glenamoy Community Angling Association, which has overseen recent improvements such as bush clearance, new stiles, footbridges and the wheelchair‑friendly pool.
- Parking is available in the village of Glenamoy; there is no charge for parking at the Anglers Rest Bar.
- The river’s flood‑prone nature means that water levels can change rapidly after heavy rain. Anglers are advised to check local flood warnings, especially during the autumn months when the river is most volatile.
Getting There Glenamoy lies on the R311 regional road, a short drive from the towns of Bangor and Belmullet. The nearest major airport is Ireland West Airport Knock (approximately 80 km north‑west). From there, hire‑car or local bus services can bring you to the village of Glenamoy, where the Anglers Rest Bar serves as the hub for fishing enquiries.
Contact & Further Details
- Phone: +353 (0)97 87961 (Kevin Healy, GCAA)
- Website: http://glenamoyangling.com/
- Permits: Day permits and State Angling licences are sold on‑site; a State licence is required for salmon and sea trout.
Nearby Attractions
While based at Glenamoy, visitors can easily explore other north‑Mayo highlights:
- Bangor Trail – a rugged coastal walk stretching from Bangor Erris to the cliffs of the Atlantic, offering dramatic sea views and opportunities for birdwatching. (Bangor Trail)
- Ballycroy National Park – Ireland’s first designated national park, famed for its blanket bogs, wildlife and the scenic Glencastle Loop. (Ballycroy National Park)
These nearby routes complement a day of angling with additional outdoor experiences, making Glenamoy River a convenient base for exploring north Mayo’s wild coastline and interior.